The New York Yankees, a team steeped in tradition, have made a controversial move, adding advertisements to their iconic pinstriped uniforms. Starting July 21st, both home and away jerseys will feature a patch for Starr Insurance, a move that has sparked outrage among fans.

The Yankees announced the change via social media, showcasing Aaron Judge in the home uniform and Gerrit Cole sporting the road version, both with the new advertisement. This multi-year deal, reportedly worth $25 million annually, extends through 2031 and represents a significant break from the team's history.

Known for their unwavering adherence to tradition, the Yankees are the only MLB team without player last names on their jerseys. They, along with the Detroit Tigers, are also the only teams without official alternate jerseys, and the team maintains a strict policy against facial hair below the lip. This latest decision marks a significant departure from this established identity.

Fan reaction has been swift and largely negative, with many expressing their disappointment and disapproval on social media. Some fans have called the move "cheapening" and "nauseating," while others have expressed stronger feelings of disgust. The change has ignited a debate about the balance between preserving tradition and embracing modern commercial practices.

While this is a first for the regular season pinstripes, the Yankees have donned different jerseys for special occasions. They wore throwback uniforms in 2012 to celebrate Fenway Park's centennial, participated in the league-wide Players' Weekend in 2018 and 2019, and wore specialized throwbacks for the 2021 Field of Dreams game.

The Yankees are the tenth MLB team to incorporate jersey advertisements this season, a practice newly permitted by the league. This trend reflects a broader shift in professional sports towards increased commercialization and revenue generation.